Houston Astros move Kyle Weiland to DL

A tough start to the year for Kyle Weiland has gotten a little bit tougher.

The Houston Astros have decided to place starting pitcher, Weiland (0-3 6.62 ERA), on the 15-day disabled list. Weiland cited shoulder issues that have been lingering for a while as the culprit.

“It’s been building up a little bit since late spring training,” Weiland said. “Nothing too serious; it’s stuff that I’ve felt before, and I want to stop it before it gets worse.”

The decision to place Weiland on the DL was a preemptive move to nip a growing problem in the bud because neither party believes the issue is especially serious.

According to the Houston Chronicle, “General manager Jeff Luhnow said an MRI revealed no structural damage to Weiland’s shoulder. Luhnow anticipates a short disabled-list stint.”

Weiland’s last start was Saturday against the Los Angeles Dodgers gaving up three runs on six hits over a career-high seven innings and 105 pitches Saturday in a loss to the Dodgers. He did pinch run during Wednesday’s 7-5 win over the Brewers. The team decided on Thursday to send Weiland back to Houston for more evaluation from team doctors. Thursday will be the backdate beginning the DL tenure.

Houston called up left-handed reliever, Fernando Abad from Triple-A, Oklahoma City. The team now has an eight man bull pen but it includes no long starters. So the club is expected to pick up another spot starter from their farm club.

Jordan Lyons is a good candidate to get the nod. He was the final cut from the team’s starting rotation in spring training and has played well in Triple-A Oklahoma. He has compiled a 4-0 record with a 3.46 era. The team is reportedly high on the 21 year old prospect.